Has Khalid Jamil Signed a Full-Time Contract as Head Coach of the Indian Senior Men's Team?
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Synopsis
In a major development for Indian football, Khalid Jamil has been officially appointed as the head coach of the Indian Senior Men's National Team. This two-year commitment, with an option for extension, marks a significant step in his coaching career, as he aims to lead the team to success in upcoming tournaments.
Key Takeaways
- Khalid Jamil has signed a two-year contract as head coach.
- He will lead the team exclusively, starting with a training camp on August 15.
- India will compete in the CAFA Nations Cup and the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.
- Jamil has a rich coaching history, including a title win with Aizawl FC.
- He is also a former international player with significant experience.
New Delhi, Aug 13 (NationPress) The All India Football Federation has officially announced that Khalid Jamil has entered into a two-year agreement, which includes an option for an additional year, assuming the role of head coach for the Indian Senior Men's National Team.
With the former head coach Manolo Marquez taking on a dual position with both the national team and FC Goa, there were speculations about whether Jamil would pursue a similar path given his commitments to Jamshedpur FC.
However, Jamil will now take full responsibility for the national team on a full-time basis, commencing his first training camp on August 15 at the Dravid-Padukone Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru.
His initial challenge with the national team will be the CAFA Nations Cup, where India is set to compete against hosts Tajikistan on August 29, Iran on September 1, and Afghanistan on September 4 in Group B. Following this, during the October FIFA window, India will engage in two significant AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying matches against Singapore on October 9 and 14.
"I feel an immense sense of pride and privilege to be given the chance to lead our national team. Through the years, I’ve closely worked with Indian players and have gained an in-depth understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. These insights will be vital as we prepare for the CAFA Nations Cup and the forthcoming crucial qualifiers against Singapore," Jamil expressed.
Being the first Indian to coach the men's national team since Savio Medeira in 2012, Jamil brings a wealth of coaching experience from the Indian Super League and the I-League, having managed clubs such as Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, Aizawl FC, East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan AC, and Mumbai FC. Notably, he led Aizawl FC to an unprecedented I-League title in the 2016-17 season.
At 48 years old, his latest tenure with Jamshedpur FC saw them reach the finals of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 and the semi-finals of the ISL Play-offs 2024-25 along with the Kalinga Super Cup 2024.
As a former international player, Jamil earned 15 caps, initiating his career in the 1997 SAFF Championship in Nepal, where India claimed the title. He was also part of the Indian squads for the 2002 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and the 2001 Merdeka Tournament.
In his playing career, Jamil boasts victories in the National Football League, two Federation Cups, and two IFA Shields with Mahindra United. He also played for Air India and Mumbai FC. Representing Maharashtra in the Santosh Trophy, he helped secure the title in 1999.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the significance of Khalid Jamil's appointment as head coach. His extensive experience and understanding of Indian football dynamics position him as a pivotal figure in enhancing the national team's performance. The nation stands behind him as he embarks on this journey, and his success will reflect on the future of Indian football.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Khalid Jamil's new role?
Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian Senior Men's National Team for a two-year term.
When does Jamil start his first training camp?
Jamil's first training camp begins on August 15 at the Dravid-Padukone Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru.
What are the upcoming matches for the team?
India will compete in the CAFA Nations Cup against Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan, followed by two AFC Asian Cup qualifying matches against Singapore.
What previous experience does Jamil have?
Jamil has extensive coaching experience in both the Indian Super League and the I-League, having managed several clubs including Jamshedpur FC and Aizawl FC.
What is Jamil's background as a player?
Khalid Jamil is a former international player with 15 caps to his name, having played in the 1997 SAFF Championship and other international competitions.
